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Mediterranean chicken gyros with creamy feta tzatziki sauce and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita bread

Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki

Tender marinated chicken thighs wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a rich creamy feta tzatziki sauce. A quick and flavorful Mediterranean dinner ready in 45 minutes.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
  • 4 pita breads whole wheat or white
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced, seeds removed, drained
  • 1 red onion thinly sliced, soaked in cold water
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt full-fat recommended
  • 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt for tzatziki, adjust to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper for tzatziki, adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Combine the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  2. While chicken marinates, prepare the creamy feta tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Prep vegetables: halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber (remove seeds and drain on paper towels for 10 minutes), and thinly slice red onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain).
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken thighs and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. If browning too quickly, reduce heat to medium.
  4. Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes. Slice into thin strips against the grain (perpendicular to muscle fibers) for maximum tenderness.
  5. Warm pita breads in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Pat drained cucumber dry with paper towels.
  6. Spread generous amount of creamy feta tzatziki across each pita. Arrange sliced chicken down the center. Top with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh parsley. Roll pita around fillings and serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but preferably up to 2 hours for best flavor. Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts but either can be used. Store leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead and tastes even better when flavors meld. For gluten-free option, use gluten-free pita bread or serve in lettuce wraps. Draining cucumber and soaking red onion prevents soggy gyros and mellows the onion's bite.